Why are combination pills unsafe for nursing mothers?

• A. They are unsafe for nursing mothers because of estrogen
• B. They cause weight gain
• C. They are not effective
• D. They require prescription

Answer: (A)

Estrogen in combination pills can interfere with breastfeeding. When a mother is nursing, estrogen-containing contraceptives can reduce milk production in some women and the small amount that passes into breast milk may affect the infant. Because of this, doctors often avoid estrogen-containing pills for nursing mothers and prefer progestin-only methods or nonhormonal options, which have less impact on milk supply. The other choices aren’t the main safety concern in this context—weight gain, overall effectiveness, or the need for a prescription are not the primary reasons these pills are avoided during breastfeeding.